Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens, tucked into a serene 50-acre country estate on the southeast corner of Vancouver Island, is a garden of earthly delights in every season. From summer splendour to autumn’s golden glory and sparkling holiday magic – there’s always something to see, learn and experience.

Fifty acres of floral finery offering spectacular views as you stroll along meandering paths and expansive lawns. In 1904, the concept of The Butchart Gardens began with an effort to beautify a worked-out quarry site on the 130-acre estate of Mr. and Mrs. R.P. Butchart, pioneers in the manufacture of Portland Cement in Canada. Their endeavour became a family commitment to horticulture and hospitality spanning more than 90 years and delighting visitors from all over the world. From the exquisite Sunken Garden to the charming Rose Garden, this 50-acre show-place still maintains the gracious traditions of the past, in one of the loveliest corners in the world.

The Butchart Gardens are located in Brentwood Bay, 21 km north of the capital city of Victoria and 20 km south of the Vancouver – Victoria ferry terminal at Swartz Bay.

Winter romance and tranquility:
January – March
The Gardens in winter never truly sleep. Snowdrops and crocuses awaken, forming a pretty carpet of blooms. Winter flowering trees and shrubs dot the grounds as spring approaches.

Spring Colour Spectacular:
April – May
Spring comes early on Vancouver Island and this season is like a breath of fresh air. Gardeners plant over 100,000 tulip bulbs and their dazzling splendour greets visitors with rivers of colour – a sight to behold in the warm spring sunshine.

Summer’s Simply Dazzling:
June – September 15
Summer is absolutely splendid at The Gardens. Glorious blooms are at their peak and a visit at this time of year transcends the ordinary.

Autumn Cascade of Colours:
September 16 – November
Autumn’s golden glory is a sight to behold. You’ll love The Gardens at this time of year.

Holiday spirit flourishes at Christmas
December 1- January 6
Replacing the autumn colours of November come sparkling and unique Christmas lights setting the evenings aglow from December 1 to January 6. Carollers and festive entertainment complement the atmosphere for a perfect family visit to The Butchart Gardens at Christmas Time. Holiday magic weaves a spell during “Christmas Time”. By night, The Gardens are a magical sight as a lavish display of lights illuminates the sky.

May we suggest a late afternoon visit (after 3 p.m.) from June through September; enjoy the flowers by daylight, stop for refreshment and some light musical entertainment, then see the Gardens again by the romantic Night Illuminations – thousands of lights in dozens of hues dramatically light the Gardens. On Saturday evenings, June 29 through August 31, the popular Saturday Fireworks shows can cause long line-ups to enter The Gardens. Please expect delays at the admissions gate if arriving after 3 p.m. on Fireworks Saturdays.